Angels release oft-injured RHP Ryan Madson

The Los Angeles Angels have released right-handed reliever Ryan
Madson, who never pitched for the team while attempting to return
from elbow ligament replacement surgery.

The Angels abruptly announced the move Monday before the first
pitch of their game against Texas.

”This was an upside gamble that I deemed worth the risk, and
unfortunately it did not transpire for either Ryan or the club,”
Angels general manager Jerry Dipoto said.

Los Angeles signed Madson to a one-year, $3.5 million deal in
late November, hoping the former Philadelphia closer could fill the
same role in Anaheim.

But Madson developed elbow soreness during spring training and
never made it back to the big leagues with his hometown Angels
despite rehabilitation assignments and extra work in Arizona.

”We signed Ryan with the belief that he would return to the
mound this season and positively impact our team,” Dipoto said.
”It became increasingly more apparent to us that he was not going
to pitch for the Angels this season. Our medical team has spent
much time, effort and resources in the effort to facilitate a
healthy return. It’s been a long and difficult process for all
involved.”

Madson hasn’t pitched in the big leagues since 2011, having
season-ending surgery in April 2012 after signing an $8 million
deal with the Cincinnati Reds. Madson also never pitched for the
Reds.